Tampa Bay Lightning Prepare for Playoffs

Head coach and players discuss team's readiness for postseason

Apr. 18, 2026 at 9:16pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the abstracted forms of hockey players, the puck, and the ice surface, capturing the intensity and dynamism of the sport.The Tampa Bay Lightning's veteran leadership and championship experience make them a formidable contender in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.Today in Tampa

Ahead of the start of the Stanley Cup Playoffs, the Tampa Bay Lightning held a media availability session with head coach Jon Cooper, forward Brandon Hagel, and defenseman Darren Raddysh. The team discussed their preparations and mindset as they look to make another deep playoff run.

Why it matters

The Lightning are perennial contenders, having won the Stanley Cup in 2020 and 2021. As they begin their quest for a third championship in four years, their comments provide insight into the team's focus and confidence heading into the postseason.

The details

During the media session, Cooper, Hagel, and Raddysh touched on a variety of topics related to the team's readiness. They discussed the importance of maintaining their intensity and attention to detail, as well as the challenges of the playoff grind. The players also expressed their excitement and determination to make another championship push.

  • The Lightning held their final practice before the start of the Stanley Cup Playoffs on April 18, 2026.

The players

Jon Cooper

Head coach of the Tampa Bay Lightning, leading the team to two Stanley Cup championships in the past four seasons.

Brandon Hagel

Forward for the Tampa Bay Lightning, acquired in a trade during the 2021-22 season and has become a key contributor to the team's success.

Darren Raddysh

Defenseman for the Tampa Bay Lightning, who has played a valuable role on the team's blue line since joining the organization.

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What they’re saying

“We've been through this before, and we know what it takes. The guys are ready to go, and we're excited for the challenge ahead.”

— Jon Cooper, Head Coach

“The playoffs are a different animal, but we've got the experience and the talent to make another deep run. We're focused on taking it one game at a time and leaving it all out on the ice.”

— Brandon Hagel, Forward

“This is why we play the game - to compete for the Stanley Cup. We're ready to embrace the challenge and give it our all.”

— Darren Raddysh, Defenseman

What’s next

The Lightning will begin their first-round playoff series against the [OPPONENT] on [DATE].

The takeaway

The Tampa Bay Lightning enter the playoffs with a veteran-laden roster and a championship pedigree, making them a formidable contender to capture their third Stanley Cup title in four years.